1 EDGE rusher Bengals can target in each round of 2022 NFL Draft
Round 6 – Zachary Carter, Florida
Height – 6’4″
Weight – 282
The first word that springs to mind with Florida defensive lineman Zach Carter is versatility, as he has spent time at numerous spots on the line. In 2019 and 2020, he played almost an even amount of splits attacking the B gap, over tackle, and as an outside rusher. Last season he saw a heavier focus as an edge rusher and it translated on the stat sheet.
Carter recorded 29 pressures which included seven sacks, giving him a PFF grade of 80.2 in pass rushing. The biggest question mark for the former Gator will be how to best utilize him at the next level. As with all tweeners, the Bengals must consider how he will beat offensive linemen in the NFL.
He lacks the burst and juice to be a consistent threat from a wide-angle but also lacks the power you want to see to knock interior guys backward. What is unquestionable is the motor; Carter is a high-effort pass rusher that chimes with the players already on the depth chart in Cincinnati. The Bengals would likely get him in the building and mold him how they see fit whether that be as an inside or outside defensive end.
Tariqious Tisdale, Ole Miss
Height – 6’5″
Weight – 285
Once we reach the seventh round of the draft, the Bengals will most likely revert to type. At this point, they will be looking for a depth piece that fits the mold they already have on the roster. That way should injury strike they have a player ready to step into a similar role to the starters. At 6’5″, Tariqious Tisdale is likely on the radar.
At Ole Miss, he played opposite Sam Williams, a likely Day 2 pick in this draft. Injury derailed most of 2021 and before that his impact for the Rebels was minimal. With only three career sacks, he is a raw prospect whose measurables likely give him the best chance of being drafted.
With long arms, 35.25 inches, and an impressive 4.63 40-yard dash time at 285 pounds, Tisdale is certainly worth a closer look. He has played multiple spots along the defensive front and although a long shot to make the 53-man roster, he could be worth the time developing.
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If the Bengals need a draft in a certain round, these are the names to monitor.